Geisinger confirms first H1N1 death
Published: November 7, 2009
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share thisDANVILLE - Geisinger Medical Center has confirmed its first death caused by the H1N1 virus, according a hospital news release.
The medical center is not releasing the person's name, citing a privacy policy.
"Because of the HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) guidelines, we cannot discuss any additional information," according to the release. "The Geisinger family sends our thoughts and prayers to the patient's family."
The death underscores the potential severity of the H1N1 swine origin virus, according to Geisinger officials.
Like seasonal flu, H1N1 swine origin flu in humans can range from mild to severe. People who develop flu-like symptoms should contact their healthcare provider, who will determine if influenza testing or treatment is required.
Geisinger staff encourages the public to contact their primary-care providers and student health centers for vaccinations.
"Vaccine production has been slow, but we do eventually expect that there will be enough for everyone," according to the release. "There are limited supplies, and health providers are awaiting additional doses from the Department of Health, which is judiciously allotting available supplies."
Providers are encouraged to vaccinate their most at-risk patients first. This group includes pregnant women, young people ages six months to 24 years old, healthcare providers and EMS personnel, anyone who cares for or lives with children who are younger than six months, and those under 65 with certain underlying medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and heart conditions.
Geisinger staff also recommends the following guidelines to help avoid the H1Ni flu:
- Wash your hands.
- Don't touch your face; cold and flu viruses enter the body through the eyes, nose or mouth.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Get fresh air. Central heating dries can dry your nose and throat, making you more vulnerable to cold and flu.
- Exercise regularly.
- Don't smoke.
- Cut alcohol consumption.
- Eat a balanced diet, including foods rich in zinc and vitamin C to keep immune system strong.
- Avoid crowds.
- Anyone with respiratory symptoms and fever should stay home and avoid contact with other people.
Anyone experiencing one or more of the following symptoms should seek emergency medical attention:
In children:
- Fast or difficulty breathing.
- Bluish skin color.
- Limited intake of fluids.
- Difficulty waking up or interacting.
- Being so irritable the child does not want to be held.
- Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.
- Fever with a rash.
In adults:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.
- Sudden dizziness.
- Confusion.
- Severe or persistent vomiting.
- Dehydration.
For the latest updates on H1N1, call the Geisinger Medical Center H1N1 hotline at 214-4636, or visit www.geisinger.org/info/emergencyManagement/H1N1_Influenza/.
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